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The origins of the Motorcycle Boy go back to Scotland 1985 when a band named after a Fire Engines b-side were formed - Meat Whiplash. They signed to Creation Records releasing one single for that label (which was produced by The Jesus & Mary Chain). In 1987 the band recruited vocalist Alex Taylor from The Shop Assistants and changed their name to The Motorcycle Boy (from a character in the movie Rumblefish).

Formed in early-‘80s London, the band were initially a trio centred around singer Jim Shepard. After sending a demo tape to Melody Maker, the band were recruited by Alan McGee to record for the fledgling Creation label. Their self-titled debut album was released in 1985, and in 1986 the band recorded their only Peel session. Further albums Another Age (1988) and Scratch the Surface (1989) drew critical acclaim before the band split. They reunited in 2000, releasing the album Veritas, before the band signed to McGee's Poptones label for the release of Popartglory (2001).

The Morrisons are from Torquay in Devon and were originally formed in 1986 by Phil and Ian who were both originally inspired to play guitar by the arrival of punk in the mid 70

The Popguns were formed in 1986 in Brighton with a line up of Wendy Morgan (vocals), Simon Pickles (rhythm guitar), Greg Dixon (lead guitar), Pat Walkington (bass) and a drum machine. After a couple of local gigs they were joined by Shaun Charman (ex-The Wedding Present on drums). After a number of local gigs and a flexi-disc release, the band managed to catch the attention of Manchester label Medium Cool and released Landslide, which made it into John Peel's Festive 50 at an admirable 46.